Ipswich historic houses database

The historic streetscapes of Ipswich are lined with First Period, Georgian, Federal, Greek Revival and Victorian homes.

Ipswich has 59 First Period houses, more than any other town in America. First Period houses in New England were built by the English settlers, and date from approximately 1630 to approximately 1725. They were often built as single rooms or “half-houses” with the entry and chimney on one side. These houses were often expanded so that the entrance and chimney would be in the middle, making them resemble later style Georgian homes. Many First Period homes had exposed beams and posts in the ceiling and walls, and featured large cooking fireplaces.

Second Period houses generally date from 1725 – 1780 and are generally referred to as “Georgian.” They were typically larger, laid out two rooms deep and two full stories high. Typically the front facade had a symmetrical five windows above and four windows below with a central entry door (“five over four with a door”). Woodwork was more ornamental in the Georgian style, featuring classical detailing, particularly around the windows and main doorway.

The Federal Period was from 1790 – 1820, when houses were often built 3 stories high with a low-pitched roof, a box shape and trimmed with wide corner boards.

The Greek Revival style was popular from 1820 – 1850 with classical columns, elaborate gables and decorative door trim.

The Victorian Era of the late 19th century includes many styles of architecture, including Stick Style, Queen Anne, Gothic Revival, Second Empire, Italianate, Romanesque, Shingle Style.

This partial list of 760 historic buildings in Ipswich MA was created by Susan Nelson and is for use by the Historical Commission in implementing the Demolition Delay By-Law. The list is not complete and should not be used as a final guide. Download as PDF